I attempted to install a Dell TrueMobile 1300 Mi

[Marko]

I attempted to install a Dell TrueMobile 1300 Mini PCI card in my 3500. Physical installation went fine. But when I powered on the computer, the wireless indicator light did not illuminate, and the wireless on-off switch did not appear to work. (After popping the Atheros 802.11b card back in, it worked swimmingly.)

I have read that folks have successfully upgraded with this card in the 200. Has anyone successfully upgraded this card in a 3500? I am trying to figure out if I have a bad card or a compatibility problem.

Thanks for your help.

[WNewquay]

Marko,

There is a wealth of experience in this thread.

http://tabletpcbuzz.com/forum/topic....ell,truemobile

[Marko]

WNewquay,

Thanks for your help. That thread inspired me to try this on my 3500. There are some significant differences between the 200 and the M200 ... for instance, the Mini PCI card installs under the keyboard on the 3500 and not from the back of the case.

My question is 3500-specific, i.e., is there something about the 3500 that makes it incompatible with the TrueMobile 1300 card, or do I have a bum card.

Thanks anyhow,

Marko

[heydude]

I installed the Dell G chip in my 3500. The lights and switch don't work, but I now connect at 54mbs.

The tradeoff is worth it.

[jerryk]

Hi,

I have a Dell 1300 card in my 3505 and it works fine. But, to be honest I have never played with the switch or noticed the light.

jerry

[Marko]

I like the light and the switch, because it is an easy way to turn off the WiFi card when it is not in use, thereby substantially extending battery life.

Marko

[platinum77]

Just thought I'd add my experience with the 3500:
Also can't use the on/off switch. I guess this means that even though you can switch off the wireless connection via Network Connections in Windows XP, since there's no physical switch to cut off power to the wifi card it still draws power (and thus battery life suffers).

Mike